asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that, as a result of the efforts of the British Turkey Federation, there now exists a very good market in Britain for small 7 lb. turkeys, but that the Irish turkey buyers have decided to pay 1/-per lb. less than the fixed price for small turkeys for export; and, if so, if he will take steps to have the correct price paid for small turkeys.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Turkey Exports.
Mr. Walsh
I am aware of the efforts of the body mentioned to popularise the consumption of small specially-fattened turkeys all the year round, but I am not aware that the present market position is as the Deputy states. As regards the second part of the question, I am taking all possible steps to ensure that the price of 3s. 6d. per lb., which I have indicated should be received by producers for well-finished turkeys, is, in fact, being paid for all turkeys conforming to that description.
Is the Minister aware that the turkey buyers have inserted a notice in the papers to the effect that hen turkeys under 10 lb. would be paid for at a reduction of 1/- per lb.?
Mr. Walsh
I am not so aware. In fact, I have seen advertisements to the contrary. I have read that turkey buyers are prepared to buy well-finished turkeys at 6½ or 7 lb.
Is the Minister aware that down in County Mayo — at least speaking for County Mayo—the average producer of turkeys has not got 3/6 per lb.? The purchaser tests the turkey on the breast bone. Some of these birds weigh from 18 to 20 lb. They put them down as not being suitable birds.
Mr. Walsh
Why have they turned them down?
They say they are not well finished.
The purchaser says that they are not well finished but the producer says that they are well finished.
Would the Minister consider—it is only four weeks to Christmas Day—asking the local authorities to collaborate with him and require the poultry instructresses to attend the markets and get his own inspectors to attend markets?
Mr. Walsh
That has been done already. They have been out for the past week.
The producer of turkeys in the West of Ireland has been fleeced in the past two weeks——
Mr. Walsh
I have not seen any——
If I can show the Minister an advertisement which was inserted in the newspapers by poultry buyers to the effect that they are going to cut the price of turkeys, whether well finished or otherwise, if they are under a certain weight, will he take action?
Mr. Walsh
I should like to see that advertisement.